There is a dire need for the North Londoners to bring in a new centre back, and we saw how Ange Postecoglou’s side struggled in the ongoing campaign with a lack of depth and presence in the back line, and that has pushed Daniel Levy to consider signing a new defender when the summer transfer window comes around, and the club chairman is looking to bring in a marquee signing to lead the backline with the likes of Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Everton sensation Jarrad Branthwaite among the potential contenders for an N17 transfer when the offseason comes around.
We saw the first-choice defensive duo consistently injured in the ongoing season, and these struggles have forced the chiefs at Hotspur Way to consider bringing in a reliable defender who not only fits in with the playing style deployed at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium but also can lead the backline through pressure in high-profile games and situations. And we have come down to two names, both from the Premier League, with rumours suggesting that the Lilywhites are interested in signing one of the two.
Everton pushing to keep Jarrad Branthwaite
Everton want to keep hold of Jarrad Branthwaite
With Jarrad Branthwaite, the Merseysiders have been looking to keep hold of the 22-year-old, and according to the latest report by Football Insider, David Moyes’ side will “do everything” to keep hold of the star defender. With their move to Bramley-Moore Dock stadium imminent, Everton would want to go into their new home with a side capable of competing, and the additional finances will be a welcome sign.
And the chiefs at Finch Farm are said to be plotting contract talks with Branthwaite as they look to tie him down to a long-term deal.
But who fits in at Tottenham better? – Jarrad Branthwaite or Marc Guehi
Now exploring both the defenders in question, firstly from their tactical fit point of view. Starting with Branthwaite, he will naturally slot into that left centre-back role, while slotting someone like Guehi (who is naturally a right footer) in the role can upset passing angles. And with his 6’5” frame, he is apt in the air and would be an asset from dead balls (Spurs have had their set of problems defending free kicks and corners). Jarrad is also fast, and his height enables him to take long strides, which makes it ideal to recover from Postecoglou’s high defensive line. While in Guehi, they get someone who is more experienced and is a leader in the backline, and rather than recovery, he relies on defensive organisation to put a hold on situations that require scrapping for getting back.
Looking into the injury aspects, Branthwaite hasn’t had injury problems, but you’d think that his lengthy frame would come as a concern in the long term. While for Guehi, he did miss a few games last season but has a strong injury record otherwise. When you compare it with the likes of Micky van de Ven and Romero, both of them have a strong injury record, one that Postecoglou can fairly rely on.
If we dig into the current squad that the North Londoners have at Hotspur Way, getting in someone like Branthwaite will ideally suit the transfer policy that Daniel Levy has adapted of signing high-profile and high-potential young players that have the capacity to create an impact in the long term while also aiding a rotational option to Micky van de Ven. That being said, they would be prioritising getting that defensive discipline and resolving those fatalities at the back.
We are still forgetting something, aren’t we?
We still haven’t asked the big question, have we? Money. While Everton’s current financial problems could force them into selling their star defender, the Blues would be in a position to be asking a hefty fee given the competition for Branthwaite. And then in comparison, Guehi would cost a bit less.
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So for Tottenham, if finances are a concern and they are looking for an immediate solution, then all roads lead to Marc Guehi—but if they are looking for a bit of long-term investment and a durable option, then they can put their name among the suitors for Branthwaite.